3. Raw Cashews
Cashews are a delicious and popular snack, but many people are unaware that truly raw cashews contain a natural toxin called urushiol, which is the same substance found in poison ivy. If consumed, raw cashews can cause a severe allergic reaction, similar to poison ivy, with symptoms like skin irritation, itching, and even more serious health effects if ingested in large quantities.
To make cashews safe for consumption, they go through a heating process to remove urushiol. Cashews labeled as “raw” in stores are typically steamed or roasted to remove this toxin, making them safe to eat. However, it’s important to avoid any genuinely raw cashews you may encounter outside of retail sources, such as on a visit to a cashew processing plant or farm.
Always double-check labels and stick to commercially available cashews that have been processed to remove toxins. By taking this simple step, you can safely enjoy cashews’ creamy texture and nutritional benefits without the risk of an allergic reaction.
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